PEG-20 Cocamide
AKA “Polyethylene glycol 20 cocamide, PEG 20 cocamide
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Peg-20 cocamide
AKA: Polyethylene glycol 20 cocamide, PEG 20 cocamide
Surfactant · Emulsifying · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Not Clean
Amides, coco alkyl, N-(hydroxyethyl), ethoxylated (19 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
68425-44-5
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Surfactant Emulsifying
Moisturizing
Strengthens Barrier
Mixes oil and water
Traditional Use
Synthetic emulsifier created by combining polyethylene glycol with coconut oil-derived amides in the 20th century. Developed to improve foaming and conditioning properties in cosmetics.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
Dermal absorption: 100%. Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 772).
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR